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Rural Lifestyle Highlights Vegreville’s 122nd Annual Country Fair
Rural Lifestyle Highlights Vegreville’s 122nd Annual Country Fair
Rosanne Fortier - News Correspondent
Eternal happy memories were created once again when the Vegreville Agricultural Society (VAS) presented the charm and positive vibes of a rural summer by hosting the Xtreme Kubota Country Fair at the VAS grounds from August 6 to 10. Attendance was down due to the weather but attendees commented afterwards that they had a great time.
Family-centered traditions and fun were enjoyed, whether it was a child holding up their blue ribbon from winning first place at the Exhibit Hall, a kid beaming with pride as they flashed the money they won at the friendly competitions of the Mini-Tractor Pulls or Strong Person Competition.
Luke Warawa, who is four years old, won Second Place in the Strong Person Competition, expressed that it happened because he is strong and tough. “It feels good. I enjoyed the log-carrying competition.”
Shelby Warawa won First Place, and she shared it was scary because she thought she might knock down the pole, but it was also fun at the same time. “I am proud of myself because I improved from last year.”
At another spot, childhood glee was expressed when kids screamed with delight while on the Midway Rides, or dropped their popcorn while rushing to the next ride.
Couples seemed to be more in love when they walked away from games of chance with prizes they won for their partner.
Attendees were in awe of the talents of the exhibitors at the 1,300-entries at the Exhibit Hall, with the most popular category being Amateur Photography.
While other folks of all ages were seen socializing with old friends who came to immerse themselves in the down-to-earth feel of their hometown fair again.
The Open Horse Show featured riders bonding with their horses while confidently competing in the ring, showcasing their skills.
The Marketplace was the site for treasure seekers looking for an item not commonly found in stores. The Farmer’s Market had vendors selling their produce on the grounds.
At the Kids' Fun Zone, there were inflatables to climb, jump in, and play on, obstacle courses, and other activities.
The Alberta Professional Chuckwagon and Chariot Races were cancelled on August 6 and 7 due to a downpour of rain. But August 8, 9, and 10’s races drew a crowd of enthusiastic spectators to experience the fever. There was also a mini-wagon team version where youngsters were able to have their first taste of this exciting and competitive sport.
The Chariot Champion was Darren Twerdochlib, and the Chuckwagon Champion was John Stott.
Chuckwagon Chairman for the VAS and Driver Shane Cartier expressed that, as a driver, performance is based on many factors. Practice is a huge part of it. “Mostly in the spring, as once we get racing, we don’t get very many practice days. Skill is also important for both drivers and horses. We will always take Lady Luck on our side. The most important part is the driver-horse relationship. There are five parts to the team. You need the four horses and driver all working in sync.
The best part of racing is the time spent with your horses, racing family traveling together, and performing in front of the great fans at all the towns we stop in. During a race, every driver is very aware of where they are, where their competitors are, as it is significant for safety purposes.”
Also, there were Modified Truck and Tractor Pulls, which were cancelled on August 8 due to the rainfall but returned on August 9.
The Antique Tractor Pulls on August 10 had spectators watch with interest and comment that they were amazed at the quality of the older machinery and the endurance of the drivers.
